What is a session fee on a public EV charger?
A session fee is a fixed charge for a charging event, also described as a connection fee, rather than a charge for each unit of energy [S1]. It can sit alongside an energy rate. Under guidance for the Public Charge Point Regulations 2023, fixed charging fees must be reflected in the displayed maximum pence-per-kilowatt-hour price [S2]. Checked October 2026.
What does a session fee mean for your site?
A session fee is a fixed amount charged for a charging event; a connection fee is charged for connecting to the charger. DfT distinguishes connection fees from energy charges and overstay charges [S1]. Check the exact trigger in your proposed tariff.
Why it matters for your site: the same fixed fee adds more to the effective unit price on a short visit. Your staff need to explain the total charging cost rather than pointing only to the energy rate.
As an illustration, not a quote, assume a £1 session fee and 50p per kilowatt-hour (kWh, a unit of energy). An assumed 5 kWh session costs £1 + (5 × £0.50) = £3.50, equivalent to 70p per kWh. An assumed 20 kWh session costs £11, equivalent to 55p per kWh. These are arithmetic examples, not market prices or an approved display method.
How must a public charging price include the fee?
DfT guidance says fixed charging fees must be included in the displayed maximum pence-per-kWh price [S2]. Ask the operator to demonstrate how its system handles very small energy purchases. The example above does not establish a maximum for every possible session. Have your solicitor check the display and tariff logic.
Regulation 11 sets the public price-display requirement [S3]. Read setting a public charging tariff for the wider cost method and public charging prices for price context. Test assumptions in the charging cost tool.
Are parking charges separate?
The guidance distinguishes separate parking fees charged by a third party [S2]. Ask for charging and parking conditions to be shown together during your site walk-through, with separate complaint contacts where needed.
Next step
Connect the tariff to your site income goal, then get matched with an installer that covers your area.
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Common questions
Is a connection fee charged for every kilowatt-hour?
No. It is a fixed fee for connecting, rather than an energy-unit charge. DfT's consultation distinguishes connection fees from other charging costs [S1].
Can a roaming payment carry an additional fee?
Yes, but DfT guidance says roaming mark-ups and fees must be displayed in the required pence-per-kWh format. Check each offered payment route [S2].
Can drivers be required to register just to view the public price?
No. Regulation 11 permits a separate display device but requires access to the price without a pre-existing operator contract. Check the arrangement with your solicitor [S3].
Is an overstay charge the same as a connection fee?
No. DfT distinguishes a fee for connecting from an overstay charge after charging has finished. Specify the trigger for each charge in the operating terms [S1].
Can the charging price exceed the maximum shown at the start?
DfT guidance says the price must not exceed the advertised maximum once charging starts. Test that limit in the proposed billing system and check it with your solicitor [S2].
Ask about your site
Sources
- The consumer experience at public chargepoints, Department for Transport,Last checked 19 October 2026
- Public Charge Point Regulations 2023 guidance, Department for Transport,Last checked 19 October 2026
- The Public Charge Point Regulations 2023, legislation.gov.uk,Last checked 19 October 2026